Bipolar Disorder Support Group

Bipolar disorder is not just a single disorder, but a category of mood disorders marked by periods of abnormally high energy and euphoria, often accompanied by bouts of clinical depression. This is the place to talk about your experience with bipolar disorder, learn from others' experiences, and find support.

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ivybelle 06/07/2009

and I am totally freaking out about it. At first it seemed like a good idea but now that it's closer I'm feeling a lot of anxiety about it. First, last week was a really bad week and I asked my pdoc about partial hospitalization programs. I really don't want my pdoc bringing that up in front of my Mom. It will just make it so that I have to take care of my Mom while she freaks out.

There are a lot of things I can't talk about in front of my mom, but I can't say that I am uncomfortable with them in front of my mom either. It's like a catch 22. I just feel like this might be a total disaster. My Mom is determined to come since she already took the day off work.

I can't email my pdoc, but I can drop a note off to her before my Mom comes to ask her at least to not mention the hospitalization thing. If I do that, I will feel a lot better about the meeting, but I am afraid I will look weird. I dunno. What to you guys think? Sorry about the long post.

Shelly4 06/07/2009

I go to therapy with my 16 y/o and the doc does not get into anything like that. We focus more on "our" relationship and how my son is doing with his life. I dont think anything mentioned previously can be brought up unless you bring it up. Try to relax, this should prove to be a good thing for both of you.

You cant worry about how your mom reacts, that is her responsibility. I am sure the doc will be aware of all of that and handle it with care. Things will work out, you have to focus on that. Hugs

Matt74 06/07/2009

i found that going in and being real honest works best. I was surprised how well my mom handled it.

ivybelle 06/07/2009

Thanks. Yeah I just don't know what she will bring up. And I live with my mom now so if she spazzes out then I have to deal with the consequences. The worst situation is my Mom getting all worried about me and then me having to take care of her worry and myself.

deleted_user 06/07/2009

I think it could be a positive experience for both of you, though I do understand you having some anxiety about it. Leave the note with the Doctor about not bringing up partial hospitalizations. It will help some of your anxiety.

polarbare 06/08/2009

Its your doctor and you have the right to ask her not to reveal things you shared with her in confidence... I would feel the same way and dropping off a note stating your expectations will clarify things for the meeting and alleviate your anxiety.... good luck ((hugs)) polar

dobiedots 06/08/2009

Why is she going? Are you a minor?
Tell her you're not comfortable with it.
Then change the appt. to a different time and don't tell her.
Ok, that's something I would do. Didn't mean to put it on you. But gee, you do have rights you know.

deleted_user 06/08/2009

My 2 cents is that it can be really helpful to have a family member attend an appointment with you if you're flailing...my sister usually visits my pdoc with me when she's in town..it is useful..
the thing is with this post is you seem to be taking so much responsibility for your mother's feelings...maybe pdoc can help you address this issue..and that might help you. So what you considered partial hospitalization program (I gather?)? Big deal! You have BP & are seeking ways to best deal with it..if anyone wishes to overreact about this information ..it shouldn't really be your problem imho!
Just look after you.

ivybelle 06/08/2009

Thanks for all of your suggestions... (I'm 29) and I shouldn't be responsible for how my mom feels but when she's not happy she takes everything away (i.e., clothes, place to live, phone, etc.) so I really have to make sure that she isn't overly concerned about me or flipping out about something. I make a big show of being "okay" around my Mom because it is so much easier than having to make her feel better about me feeling like crap. If she knows how bad it's been, I will have to do major work to convince her that everything is all better. It's a lot of pressure.

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